Since the majority of our time is spent in the office, it is inevitable at one point or another a flame will be ignited between you and a colleague. Office romances are frowned on by the bosses for good reason, as the fallout can be disastrous to the team and generally affect the status of the working environment. But, since we are human and allow our feelings get the better of our good judgement, it is wise to be prepared for an office romance before the supressed passion and thrill of being discovered clouds the judgement and leads to a complicated mess.
Keep these tips in mind before plunging into an office romance
Know the rules and understand the consequences.
Reading the company policy on conducting office romances will definitely cool the ardour. Know what the rules are and be ready to accept the consequence if you are planning to start an office romance. The secret will come out eventually and you will have to pay the piper.
...however, if you plan to pursue an office romance....
Whatever happens outside of work stays outside of work
Always socialise outside of the workplace and this includes not arranging a rendezvous close to or in the office.
If you find yourself lingering in the kitchen or near the water station to do some flirting, break the habit and set times after work hours to meet.
Don’t smile, wink, touch or offer any special treatment to the object of your desire during work. However, ‘casual and cool’ you think you are keeping it, your colleagues will notice the sparks and the gossip, rumours and innuendo will begin.
Stay on your own level
Dating someone higher on the corporate ladder can lead to a stagnant career, even if the relationship lasts. The consequences of being discovered can be severe so the boss/lover will not be willing to show any special favour when it comes to promotions. If fact the odds are good that the boss will treat their partner more harshly as a result of the office romance.
Don’t give the gossips any ammunition
It is difficult not to crow about your newly found love to your colleagues. However, if anyone discovers the office romance (even your most trusted colleagues) you will become the subject of discussion. So keep your own council and resist the urge to post about your romance on social media.
Use your own resources
If you want to send an email, text or make a call, do it at your own expense. Don’t use your company email account, phone, car or any other perk or benefit on your office romance.
Keep it professional
Not every office romance is destined to end happily ever after. Broken hearts and hurt feelings will create bad vibes in the office environment. Keep your professional mask on when dealing with the person you had an office romance with, and under no circumstances argue or try to exact any revenge in the office.
